Consumers Expands Options For Renewable Energy Installations

Jackson-based Consumers Energy is expanding options for customers interested in developing their own renewable energy sources.

The utility is significantly increasing its Experimental Advanced Renewable Program. That program provides for the long-term purchase of renewable energy generated by solar energy systems owned by Consumers’ electric customers.

The program is adding an additional three megawatts following recent approval by the Michigan Public Service Commission. The original phases of the program are now completed and added two megawatts of solar panels on roofs and yards across Michigan.

Said David Ronk, Consumers Energy’s director of transactions and resource planning: “The additional solar generation through this expansion will add to Consumers Energy’s renewable energy portfolio.”

Customer installations under this program were recently completed at 102 locations throughout Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.

Customer applications for the new expanded phase of the program will be accepted near the end of August. More information on the Experimental Advanced Renewable Program is available at www.consumersenergy.com/EARP.

Consumers Energy, the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), provides natural gas and electricity to 6.8 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.